UniMac Washer Error Code EI03: Invalid Infra-Red Command
EI03 on a UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractor means the infra-red link received a command code that is not valid for this machine type or mode. Washing is not affected. Check that the programming tool is set for this machine and that the washer is in the mode the tool expects.
Low: a data link message only; the unit keeps running.
What does UniMac error code EI03 mean?
EI03 means the infra-red link on UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractors such as the UWL035K12 received a command code that is not valid for this machine type or mode. The device reached the washer without trouble, but what it asked for does not apply here. Each control accepts only the commands that belong to its model family and to the mode it is in at that moment. A tool set for a different machine type, or a washer in a mode that does not accept the command, will be refused with EI03. This usually points to the wrong settings file or the wrong mode on the programming tool. Washing is not affected, since only the data link is involved. The manual names the machine type selected on the tool, the control mode when the transfer started, the tool's software version, and the receiver on the control if all commands fail.
Affected models and control systems
Listed for the PHM1263R family of UniMac UW pocket hardmount washer-extractors (UWL/UWN/UWU 035-125), such as the UWL035K12, front-end control with infra-red window.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- EI03 shown right after a command is sent
- Tool reports the command was rejected
- The washer keeps running normal cycles
- The same command fails every time
Possible causes
Listed in UniMac's documentation
- Machine type the programming tool is set for
- Control mode when the transfer started
- Tool software version
- Receiver on the control if all commands fail
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code EI03 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A settings file saved from a different UW size than this one
- The washer left in a running cycle when the tool tried to change options
- An older tool version that does not know this control's commands
Safe checks before calling for service
- Check that the programming tool is set for this machine type.
- Make sure the washer is in the mode the tool expects, and try again.
- Leave the control cabinet closed.
- If EI03 returns with the right settings, call us.
- Note the tool model, its version and the washer model.
How a technician diagnoses error code EI03
- Confirm the washer model and control version from its data plate and display.
- Confirm the tool's software version and the machine type selected.
- Put the washer in the mode the tool needs and repeat the transfer.
- Send a simple read command to see whether any commands are accepted.
- Suspect the control's receiver only if every command is refused with the right settings.
- Choosing the right settings file for the model needs the machine's own data and documentation.
- A wrong file sent to the control can change program options, so retries should be done with the right tool.
- Testing the receiver circuit requires opening the control, where line voltage is present.
How error code EI03 differs from similar codes
EI03 means the command itself does not apply. EI05 means the command was valid but the value was out of range.
Technical reference
- Document
- Washer-Extractor Programming PHM1263R, Part No. F8208801R7, September 2015, Error Codes (p.53-54)
- Maker documentation
- UniMac owner support
- Edition
- Part No. F8208801R7, September 2015
- Models / control
- PHM1263R family pocket hardmount washer-extractor (UWL/UWN/UWU 035-125) front-end control
- Section
- Error Codes, Table 16, printed pp. 52-53 (PDF pp. 54-55)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related UniMac washer error codes
Why does the washer reject my tool?
The tool is probably set for another machine type, or the washer is in a mode that does not accept the command.
Can EI03 hurt the machine?
No. The command was refused, so nothing was changed.
Do I need a technician for EI03?
Only if the right settings and mode still produce it.
Need help with UniMac error code EI03?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.